It's Been Too Long - A February 2022 Update
It’s been more than six months since my last blog post. Too long, no doubt. There’s been a lot going on behind the scenes despite an apparent lack of activity on this site. Let me just say that the downside to trying to maintain an inventory of interesting, attractive material is that it can be hard to come by, especially given the current numismatic climate with few shows. The time to photograph, describe, and post that material can be just as elusive. That said, the search and the work continues. If you have been thinking of selling, send me an email or give me a call. I am always looking to buy and am paying strong prices.
Some of you reading this may be aware of my involvement in the cataloguing and sale of the Michael Joffre Collection of Canadian Historical Medals, scheduled for auction as part of Geoffrey Bell Auctions’ Toronto Coin Expo sale on April 28th. I spent three weeks last fall working with Mike’s collection in Montreal and many, many hours back in Ottawa preparing the catalogue along with Mike, Dawn, Brian, Geoff, and Mary-Anne. We are all delighted with the outcome and look forward to the sale. The auction catalogue can be viewed here. You can order your hardcopy by contacting Geoffrey Bell Auctions.
I want to take some time now to talk about the state of organized numismatics in Canada. Participation in local coin clubs has been an important part of my involvement in the hobby, beginning with the Lakeshore Coin Club, followed by the Montreal Numismatic Society, and now with the Ottawa Numismatic Society. These local clubs give hobbyists the opportunity to meet fellow collectors, discuss new developments, and learn about a wide array of topics. They are important, and I encourage those who have access to a local club to participate.
We also have in this country a national numismatic organization, The Royal Canadian Numismatic Association. In the 21st century, it should serve to provide its members with online learning courses, mentorship opportunities, and presentations from collectors, researchers, and dealers. It should aim to educate and to unite collectors across the country, and to engage collectors of Canadian numismatic material around the world.
During the past month, a letter was sent to the RCNA Board of Directors on behalf of a group of advanced Canadian numismatists. The letter suggested that the Association should modernize, and that it should do so quickly to shore up its financial situation and stem an ongoing decline in its membership. Part of that modernization process includes reforming the CN Journal, rebuilding the website, developing online programming, and engaging in member outreach, incluant nos communautés francophones. It also includes its members getting involved.
If you are a member of the RCNA and agree with any of these points, please reach out to your area director or any other representative of the Association. Contact information (not updated, but still useful) can be found here.
As always, I appreciate your ongoing support and interest.
Jacob
